As most here are aware, I have been writing on this forum for many years, and in that time have held several titles, being very proud to have been asked to moderate this forum. It is becoming apparant already that the often very noticeable situation of my name being present quite a lot in threads and posts is manifesting rather quickly.
For many years even before writing on these forums I was deeply empassioned by the study of arms and armour, actually for more years than I can say exactly. I wanted to learn everything I could about them, and as I began collecting I anxiously tried to learn from every collector I met, bought every book I could afford and find, and began writing to museums and authors of the books I bought. I learned very early that knowledge is by far the most important weapon in any collectors armoury!!!
My days of actual collecting are now past, but my passion for researching, studying and learning on weapons has heightened constantly. With this being my focus, I am extremely proactive in responding and often writing in some detail with my findings as I research weapons that are posted. I would like to explain that my purpose is not to be 'omnipresent' nor to present myself as any sort of expert or authority on any weapon or field of study, but to share information in hopes of encouraging further discussion and for others to respond in kind.
I sincerely want this forum to develop into a resource valuable to collectors and scholars interesting in advancing the serious study of arms and armour. I am very enthusiastic about the participation of the members here, many specializing in other fields, and with outstanding knowledge of arms and armour overall. Perhaps this forum will encourage interest in collecting in this broad scope, and hopefully new members with shared interests....whatever the case, here we all learn together!
I have always been adversely moved by threads and posts that stand unanswered, and my position has always been if it is something I do not know much about (a very, very broad field indeed for me!!) I will hit the books and find what I can, then share it openly, hoping that others will do the same and other resources will be combined.
These are the reasons why my name often might be seen in sometimes embarrassing profusion.....I really don't want my name in lights!!
I want this forum to explode with participation, so when you see my name in multiples...please fire at will!!!! Make it disappear by posting!
You guys are the best, and I'm looking forward to seeing this forum join our other forums in being the best in these fields of study.
Thank you Gentlemen,
Sincerely,
Jim